Tariffs Impose Pressure on Inflation-Sensitive US Consumers
A 10% tariff on Chinese imports, equivalent to $45 billion in additional costs, is poised to impact American consumers amidst heightened price sensitivity.
According to Morning Consult, price sensitivity has reached record levels, with consumers increasingly hesitant to purchase at higher prices. This reluctance stems from persistent price increases that have eroded their economic power.
Trump's campaign promises to reduce inflation have raised concerns, as consumer surveys indicate expectations of worsening inflation due to tariff policies. The Federal Reserve has halted interest rate cuts to monitor the potential impact of Trump's tariffs.
Threats of 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican imports, totaling $900 billion annually, could exacerbate the situation, with the hit expected to be five times greater than the China tariff. Universal tariffs and product-specific tariffs further add to the potential economic damage.
Analyses estimate that Trump's proposed tariffs would cost the average family $1,200 annually, rising to $2,600 if all threatened tariffs are implemented. Higher prices would impact a range of goods, from industrial components to finished products.
Unlike previous tariffs, Trump's current policies come at a time of heightened inflation. The average inflation rate from 2021-2024 stood at 5%, compared to 1.2% in Trump's first term.
Consumer psychology is also a factor, with years of subdued inflation shaping current behavior. Falling inflation in recent months has not been fully appreciated by consumers, who remain wary of price hikes.
Morning Consult data indicates a significant increase in the willingness to forgo purchases upon encountering higher prices, signaling fatigue and a reluctance to accept further increases.
While Trump may attribute inflation to his predecessor, consumers demand lower prices and remain vigilant about price monitoring.